HANDLEBAR AND GRIP APPARATUS AND SYSTEM
A handlebar and grip system comprising: a handlebar, the handlebar comprising: a center portion; a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end; a right grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the right handle, the right grip comprising: a right grip central opening; a right grip engaging geometry located in the right grip central opening; a left grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the left handle; a left grip central opening; a left grip engaging geometry located in the left grip central opening; where the right grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the right handle engaging geometry such that the right grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the right handle when the right grip has been slid onto the right handle; and where the left grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the left handle engaging geometry such that the left grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the left handle when the left grip has been slid onto the left handle. A handlebar comprising: a center portion; a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end; a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end. A grip comprising: a grip central opening; a grip engaging geometry located in the grip central opening.
This patent application claims the benefit of PCT application no. PCT/US2015/029524, by applicant PADLOC, LLC, and inventors Jason Moeschler, Chris Feucht, Evan Smith, Mark Slate, Patrick Seidler, and Raphael Schlanger, entitled “HANDLEBAR AND GRIP APPARATUS AND SYSTEM,” filed on May 6, 2015, and which PCT application is fully incorporated by reference herein. This patent application also claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 61/996,920, by Jason Moeschler, Chris Feucht, Evan Smith, Mark Slate, Patrick Seidler, and Raphael Schlanger, entitled “HANDLEBAR GRIP,” filed on May 19, 2014, and which provisional application is fully incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELDThe present invention relates to a handlebar and grip apparatus and system, and more specifically to a handlebar and grip apparatus and system that prevents the grip from rotating, and provides cushioning in key area of the hand.
BACKGROUNDCurrent handlebar and grip devices generally require a way to prevent the grip from rotating with respect to the handlebar. Many current systems use two clamps or collars on the grip to prevent the grip from rotating. However, the clamps or collars tend to be located where a rider would place his or her hands, causing discomfort to the hands, and may cause an inability to properly hold the grips. Many grips do not provide enough cushion for the ulnar nerve in the hand, and thus can lead to injuries to the hand, such as, but not limited to ulnar neuropathy or handlebar palsy. Some grips provide for a wing shaped design, to provide for better cushioning near the ulnar nerve, but those wing shaped designs have disadvantages. Wing shaped grips can lead to twisting of the grips with respect to the handlebar. It is difficult for a rider to completely grip the wing shaped grip, thus limiting the user's ability to safely control the vehicle. In addition, the wing shaped grips often require clamps or collars, that can be in the way of the rider's hand. Traditional slide-on grips can twist and pull off handlebar.
The axial axis 14a extends along the length of the left handle 6a and the axial axis 14b extends along the length of the right handle 6b. The axial direction 17 is a direction parallel to the axial axis 14b. The radial direction 18 is a direction generally perpendicular to the axial direction 17 and extending from the axial axis 14b radially outwardly. The tangential direction 19 is a direction perpendicular to both the radial direction 18 and axial direction 17, defining a generally tangent vector at a given radius from the axial axis 14b. The circumferential direction 20 is a cylindrical vector that wraps around the axial axis 14b at a given radius. A radial plane 22 is a plane perpendicular to the axial axis 14b that extends in a generally radial direction 18 at a given axial intercept. An axial plane 21 is a plane that is generally parallel to the axial axis 14b. Identical direction conventions are similarly based on axial axis 14a of the left handle 6a. The “down” direction 23 is a direction generally toward the ground and generally away from the palm of the operator. The “up” direction 24 is a direction generally toward the palm of the operator and generally opposed and distal from the ground.
In the ensuing descriptions, the term “axial” refers to a direction parallel to the centerline of the axial axis and the term “radial” refers to a direction perpendicular to the axial axis. An axially inboard (or inward) orientation is an orientation that is axially proximal to the center portion 7. Conversely, an axially outboard (or outward) orientation is an orientation that is axially distal from the center portion 7. A radially inboard (or inward) orientation is an orientation that is radially proximal to the axial axis 14a and/or 14b and a radially outboard (or outward) orientation is an orientation that is radially distal to the axial axis 14a and/or 14b. An axially inboard (or inward) facing surface is a surface that faces generally proximally toward the center portion 7. Conversely, an axially outboard (or outward) facing surface is a surface that faces generally distally away from the center portion 7.
Next, the right grip assembly 41 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 6b in direction 54 as shown in
The right handle 6b is shown to have a generally circular cylindrical external contour about axial axis 14b and the opening 48 is also shown to have a generally circular cylindrical internal contour about axial axis 14b. As such, in the absence of split collars 50a and 50b, the opening 48 of right grip 40 would be easily circumferentially rotatable and axially slideable relative to the right handle 6b. The only restriction to such relative movement would be any friction that would exist between the internal surface of opening 48 and external surface of right handle 6b. The split collar 50a serves to provide an actively gripped connection between the inboard end 42 and the right handle 6b. Similarly, The split collar 50b serves to provide an actively gripped connection between the outboard end 44 and the right handle 6b.
Traditional slip on grips that primarily rely on friction, which do not use collars or clamps to keep the grip in place often rotate due to force. Rain, snow, water, and other liquids can cause the prior art grips to rotate. Prior art grips with one inboard collar also tend to rotate under heavy use, when the retaining collars are tightened to recommended torque. Over-tightening the retaining collars to resist twisting can damage or break the handlebar, potentially resulting in serious injury.
Split collars 50a and 50b may serve to axially and circumferentially engage collar portions 46a and 46b respectively while also contacting and gripping the external surface of the right handle 64b. Alternatively, split collars 50a and 50b may serve to contact the collar portions 46a and 46b respectively while pressing collar portions 46a and 46b radially inwardly to press and grip the external surface of the right handle 64b. In both cases, the split collars 50a and 50b serve to axially and/or circumferentially bind the right grip 70 to the right handle 64b. Such functionality of split collars is inferred throughout this disclosure. The collar 50b is often located where a rider may want to grip the grip or handlebar, causing discomfort or injury to the rider.
Thus there is a need for a handlebar and grip apparatus and system that overcomes the above listed and other disadvantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe disclosed invention relates to a handlebar and grip system comprising: a handlebar, the handlebar comprising: a center portion; a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end; a right grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the right handle, the right grip comprising: a right grip central opening; a right grip engaging geometry located in the right grip central opening; a left grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the left handle; a left grip central opening; a left grip engaging geometry located in the left grip central opening; where the right grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the right handle engaging geometry such that the right grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the right handle when the right grip has been slid onto the right handle; and where the left grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the left handle engaging geometry such that the left grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the left handle when the left grip has been slid onto the left handle.
The invention also relates to a handlebar comprising: a center portion; a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end; a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end.
In addition the invention relates to a grip comprising: a grip central opening; a grip engaging geometry located in the grip central opening.
The present disclosure will be better understood by those skilled in the pertinent art by referencing the accompanying drawings, where like elements are numbered alike in the several figures, in which:
As shown in
The wedge cut 73 and corresponding wedge surface 66 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the right handle 64b that is relieved to be radially inboard of the external sidewall 59 and axially inboard of the outboard end 65. Similarly, the wedge contour 77 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the grip 70 that is projecting radially inwardly from the internal sidewall 94 and axially inwardly from the end face 79.
Next, the right grip assembly 71 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 64b in direction 84 as shown in
It is possible to rely on this wedging engagement to circumferentially key the outboard end 74 to the outboard end 65 and to restrict any undesirable circumferential twisting or rotation of the right grip 70 relative to the right handle 64b. However, the right grip 70 may not have sufficient torsional rigidity from preventing such twisting at the inboard end 72. For this reason it may be preferable to include an optional clamp collar 80, as shown in
The right handle 64b is shown to have a generally cylindrical external sidewall 59 about axial axis 14b and the opening 78 is also shown to have a generally circular cylindrical internal contour about axial axis 14b. Such mating concentric contours would normally be easily circumferentially rotatable relative to each other. The only restriction to such relative movement would be any friction that would exist between the internal surface of opening 78 and external surface of right handle 64b. The wedge surface 66 geometry provides a noncircular feature in the outboard end 65. Similarly, the wedge contour 77 geometry provides a noncircular feature adjacent outboard end 74. These two noncircular features 66, 77 circumferentially engage each other to provide a rotationally keyed engagement between the right grip 70 and the right handle 64b.
In viewing
It is understood that the left grip 62 and right grip 70 are utilized to provide a comfortable surface for gripping by the hand of the operator. The operator's ulnar nerve generally runs adjacent the outside portion of their palm. Prolonged gripping of the operator's hand and the pressure of their palm against the grip (62 and/or 70), along with vibration and shock from the terrain and/or road, may impinge the ulnar nerve and cause hand numbness and/or damage to the ulnar nerve. An advantage of this handlebar and grip apparatus and system may be to reduce this pressure and/or vibration on the palm in the ulnar region and to reduce road vibration transmitted to the operator's hand in an effort to reduce or eliminate this numbness and/or damage to the ulnar nerve. As shown in
The relieved contour 89 preferably results in a flattened region of lesser curvature than the circumferential periphery of the right grip 90. This flatter region results in a broader and flatter area to reduce pressure on the operator's palm and to provide the benefit of reduced contact pressure on the operator's palm, especially in the sensitive ulnar region. Further, since the relieved contour 89 tapers radially inwardly as described hereinabove, this may also serve to reduce pressure on the operator's palm in the ulnar region by relieving the surface of the right grip 90 away from the palm to further reduce the contact pressure therebetween.
It is also noted that the lower surface 69 projects to a location axially outward from the relieved contour 89 such that the relieved contour 89 may be supported from below by the lower surface 69 of the right handle 64b to resist downward 87 loading by the palm of the operator. This axially outward extension of the lower surface 69 lends structure to the soft material of the right grip 90 to prevent the outboard end 88 from collapsing or flexing excessively.
As shown in
Next, the right grip assembly 121 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 114b in direction 134 as shown in
The semicircular extension 117 and semicircular relief 130 both provide geometry that is noncircular about the axial axis 14b. These two noncircular geometries axially overlap to circumferentially engage each other to provide a rotationally keyed engagement between the right grip 120 and the right handle 114b.
As shown in
Next, the right grip assembly 151 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 144b in direction 148 as shown in
The projections 147 and corresponding notches 146 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the right handle 144b. Notches 146 are relieved to be radially inboard of the external sidewall 141 and axially inboard of the outboard end 145. Correspondingly, projections 147 project axially outwardly relative to notches 146. Similarly, the keys 157 and gaps 155 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the grip 150. Keys 157 project axially inwardly from closed end 159 and radially inwardly from internal sidewall 160. Correspondingly, gaps 159 project radially inwardly relative to keys 157.
The right handle 170 has generally hollow tubular geometry to include opening 179 (shown in
Next, the right grip 180 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 174b in direction 198 as shown in
The external splines 177 and corresponding gaps 173 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the right handle 174b. Gaps 173 are relieved to be radially inboard relative to external splines 177. Correspondingly, internal splines 191 project axially inwardly relative to gaps 192. Similarly, the internal splines 191 and gaps 192 may be considered as a non-circular portion of the grip 150. Internal splines 191 project axially inwardly relative to gaps 192.
Next, screw 193 is assembled through screw hole 186 and the externally threaded shank 194 is threadably engaged with internally threaded hole 178. As the screw 193 is threadably tightened in direction 198, the transition surface 197 abuts the countersink 187 and the closed end 189 is axially sandwiched and clamped between the outboard end 175 and the transition surface 197. Thus, the screw 193 serves to axially secure and retain the right grip 180 to the right handle 174b and to limit axial movement therebetween.
The embodiments of
In contrast of the embodiment of
Split collar 233 is first pre-assembled to the right grip 220 to create grip assembly 221, with collar portions 226a and 226b extending to axially overlap opening 235 as shown in
Finally, the clamp screw 234 is threadably tightened to reduce the diameter of opening 235 to radially sandwich and clamp collar portions 226a and 226b to grip the right handle 214b, as shown in
The spring clip 270 includes a U shaped leaf portion 274 and two pins 272a and 272b projecting radially outwardly from respective legs 279a and 279b of leaf portion 274. The spring clip 270 is first squeezed to elastically flex and collapse the leaf portion 274 and to move engagement pins 272a and 272b and legs in directions 275a and 275b respectively. The collapsed spring clip 270 is then inserted into opening 259 in direction 276 and further advanced in direction 276 until engagement pins 272a and 272b are aligned with cross holes 257a and 257b respectively. The spring clip 270 is then released and the stored elastic spring energy of the leaf portion 274 causes engagement pins 272a and 272b to radially spread in directions 278a and 278b respectively, extending through cross holes 257a and 257b respectively, such that they project radially outwardly from the surface of the right handle 254b as shown in
Next, the right grip 260 is sleevably assembled to the right handle 254b in direction 276 as shown in
The engagement pins 272a and 272b are respectively keyed to the cross holes 257a and 257b and to the recesses 266a and 266b to create an axially and rotationally keyed engagement between the right grip 260 and the right handle 254b. Thus the spring clip 270 also serves to secure and retain the right grip 260 to the right handle 254b and to limit axial movement therebetween in the direction opposite of direction 276, and also limit the grip 260 from rotational movement in direction 277.
Right handle assembly 281 is comprised of the right handle 284b and the connector 300. The connector 300 includes a collar 306 with a series of circumferentially spaced projections 302 that extend axially inwardly and are arranged circumferentially about axial axis 14b, with reliefs 303 circumferentially spaced between adjacent projections 302. Reliefs 303 provide geometry that may be circumferentially keyed with projections 287 upon assembly with the right handle 284b. It is preferable that notches 286 and projections 302 are both circumferentially tapered in the axially inboard direction. Connector 300 also includes a series of circumferentially spaced external splines 304 that extend longitudinally and are generally parallel to the axial axis 14b and are circumferentially arranged around the external periphery of the connector 300. External splines 304 provide geometry that may be circumferentially keyed with internal splines 297 upon assembly with the right grip 290.
Split collar 233 is first pre-assembled to the right grip 290 to create grip assembly 291, with collar portions 296a and 296b extending to axially overlap opening 235 as shown in
The circumferential pitch of the engagement between internal splines 297 and external splines 304 may be different than the circumferential pitch between projections 302 and notches 286. This may create a circumferential Vernier effect, where the right grip 290 may be selectively assembled to the right handle 284b in a variety of relative circumferential position.
Finally, the clamp screw 234 is threadably tightened to reduce the diameter of opening 235 to radially sandwich and clamp collar portions 296a and 296b and to grip the right handle 284b, as shown in
While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of embodiments thereof. For example:
Several of the embodiments describe a grip being assembled to the right handle of the handlebar. It is understood that a similar arrangement as described herein may be utilized to secure and circumferentially engage a grip onto the left handle of the handlebar.
While the embodiments described herein refer to a conventional handlebar arrangement that includes two handle portions: a left handle portion and a right handle portion, it is understood that the present invention is alternatively applicable to a handlebar with only a single handle portion. As a further alternative, the present invention is applicable to handlebars with a number of handle portions (and corresponding grips) that are greater than two.
The embodiments herein describe a generally straight axial assembly direction between a grip and a handle portion. It is also envisioned that the grip may be assembled to the handle portion in a manner that includes a circumferential twisting component of motion as well. For example, the external splines 177 and internal splines 191 may alternatively be configured as helical splines about axial axis 14b, which would require the grip to be rotated as it is axially assembled to the right handle.
The embodiments herein include a means to axially secure the grip to the right handle, such as a split collar (80, 233) or a screw (193) or projections (272a, 272b). These means to secure are merely representative of a wide range of alternate securing means well known in industry. As a further alternative, such an external securing means may be omitted and the means to axially secure the grip to the right may simply be a frictional gripping fit between the opening of the grip and the right handle.
It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the illustrations described and shown herein, which are deemed to be merely illustrative of the best modes of carrying out the invention, and which are susceptible of modification of form, size, arrangement of parts and details of operation. The invention rather is intended to encompass all such modifications that are within its spirit and scope as defined by the claims.
This invention has many advantages. One advantage is that engaging geometry provides a means that prevents the right and left grips from rotating with respect to the handle bar. Another advantage is that due to some embodiments of the engaging geometry, the right and left grips have greater cushioning characteristics, especially where a rider's ulnar nerve region of his or her hands will rest on the grips, thus preventing numbness, fatigue, and injury.
It should be noted that the terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like may be used herein to modify elements performing similar and/or analogous functions. These modifiers do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order to the modified elements unless specifically stated.
While the disclosure has been described with reference to several embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. A handlebar and grip system comprising:
- a handlebar, the handlebar comprising: a center portion; a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end; a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end;
- a right grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the right handle, the right grip comprising: a right grip central opening; a right grip engaging geometry located in the right grip central opening;
- a left grip configured to slide onto the outboard end of the left handle; a left grip central opening; a left grip engaging geometry located in the left grip central opening;
- wherein the right grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the right handle engaging geometry such that the right grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the right handle when the right grip has been slid onto the right handle; and wherein the left grip engaging geometry is configured to engage with the left handle engaging geometry such that the left grip will generally be prevented from rotating about the left handle when the left grip has been slid onto the left handle.
2. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- a right handle axis defined by the right handle;
- a left handle axis defined by the left handle;
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a wedge shaped generally planar right handle outboard surface, where the generally planar right handle outboard surface makes an angle with the right handle axis that is not 0°, 90° or 180°; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip, and where the right grip end face is shaped into a wedge contour planar surface, and the angle of the wedge contour planar surface is such that when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right grip end face mates with the wedge shaped generally planar right handle outboard surface, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a wedge shaped generally planar left handle outboard surface, where the generally planar left handle outboard surface makes an angle with the left handle axis that is not 0°, 90° or 180°; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip, and where the left grip end face is shaped into a wedge contour planar surface, and the angle of the wedge contour planar surface is such that when the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left grip end face mates with the wedge shaped generally planar left handle outboard surface, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
3. The handlebar grip system of claim 2, further comprising:
- a right ulnar nerve volume of the right grip located above the wedge contour planar surface of the right grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand generally near the ulnar nerve region of the riders hand; and
- a left ulnar nerve volume of the left grip located above the wedge contour planar surface of the left grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand generally near the ulnar nerve region of the riders hand.
4. The handlebar grip system of claim 2, further comprising:
- a right upper surface of the right handle that generally points up when the handlebar is installed on a bicycle;
- a right lower surface of the right handle that generally points down and is on the opposite side from the upper surface when the handlebar is installed on a bicycle;
- wherein the right lower surface adjacent to the right grip end face extends farther towards the outboard end of the right handle, then the right upper surface adjacent to the right grip end face;
- a left upper surface of the left handle that generally points up when the handlebar is installed on a bicycle;
- a left lower surface of the left handle that generally points down and is on the opposite side from the upper surface when the handlebar is installed on a bicycle;
- wherein the left lower surface adjacent to the left grip end face extends farther towards the outboard end of the left handle, then the left upper surface adjacent to the left grip end face.
5. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a right handle notch, where generally the top half of the handle has been removed a distance away from the outboard end, and the lower half of the handle has been left generally intact; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip, and where the right grip end face is shaped to receive the right handle notch, such that when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right grip end face mates with the right handle notch, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a left handle notch, where generally the top half of the handle has been removed a distance away from the outboard end, and the lower half of the handle has been left generally intact; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip, and where the left grip end face is shaped to receive the left handle notch, such that when the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left grip end face mates with the left handle notch, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
6. The handlebar grip system of claim 5, further comprising:
- a right ulnar nerve volume of the right grip located above the right grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand generally near the ulnar nerve region of the riders hand; and
- a left ulnar nerve volume of the left grip located above the left grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand generally near the ulnar nerve region of the riders hand.
7. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right handle outboard end; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip, and where the right grip end face is shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right grip inboard end, such that when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right grip end face mates with the right handle series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left handle outboard end; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip, and where the left grip end face is shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left grip inboard end, such that when the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left grip end face mates with the left handle series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
8. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the right handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the right handle; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip; a right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the right grip in the right grip central opening, such that when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines mate with the right set of circumferentially spaced external splines, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the left handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the left handle; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip; a left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the left grip in the left grip central opening, such that when the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines mate with the left set of circumferentially spaced external splines, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
9. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the right handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the right handle; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip; a right grip collar extending from the right grip end face towards the inboard end of the grip; a right set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the right grip collar, such that when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right set of circumferentially spaced external splines mate with the right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the left handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the left handle; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip; a left grip collar extending from the left grip end face towards the inboard end of the grip; a left set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the left grip collar, such that when the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left set of circumferentially spaced external splines mate with the left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
10. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, wherein:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprises: a first right handle cross hole located in the right handle; a first right grip recess located on the inner surface of the right grip; a right engagement means, with a first right engagement pin, the right engagement means configured to have the first right engagement pin extend through the first right handle cross hole;
- wherein when the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the first right engagement pin also engages with the first right grip recess, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
11. The handlebar and grip system of claim 10, wherein:
- the right engagement means is a right spring clip, and the first engagement pin is generally held in place by the force of the right spring clip.
12. The handlebar and grip system of claim 10, further comprising:
- a second right handle cross hole located in the right handle and directly opposite of the first right handle cross hole;
- a second right grip recess located on the inner surface of the right grip, and the second right grip recess located directly opposite of the first right grip recess;
- the right engagement means further comprises: a second engagement pin configured to have the second right engagement pin extend through the second right handle cross hole; and
- wherein when the right grip is slid onto the right handle, the second right engagement pin also engages with the second right grip recess.
13. The handlebar and grip system of claim 1, further comprising:
- a right handle axis defined by the right handle;
- a left handle axis defined by the left handle;
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of right handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of right handle circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right handle outboard end; a right connector, the right connector comprising: a right connector inboard side; a right connector outboard side; a series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right connector inboard side, the series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections are configured to mate with the series of right handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of right handle circumferentially spaced projections, a right set of connector circumferentially spaced external splines located on the right connector outboard side; a right grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the right grip; a right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the right grip in the right grip central opening, such that when right connector is slide onto the right handle outboard end and then the right grip is slid onto the right handle until the right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines mate with the right set of connector circumferentially spaced external splines, the right grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of left handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of left handle circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left handle outboard end; a left connector, the left connector comprising: a left connector inboard side; a left connector outboard side; a series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left connector inboard side, the series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections are configured to mate with the series of left handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of left handle circumferentially spaced projections, a left set of connector circumferentially spaced external splines located on the left connector outboard side; a left grip end face located in the left grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the left grip; a left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the left grip in the left grip central opening, such that when left connector is slide onto the left handle outboard end and then the left grip is slid onto the left handle until the left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines mate with the left set of connector circumferentially spaced external splines, the left grip is generally prevented from rotating with respect to the left handle.
14. A handlebar comprising:
- a center portion;
- a right handle attached to a first end of the center portion, the right handle comprising: a right handle outboard end; a right handle engaging geometry located on the right handle outboard end;
- a left handle attached to the second end of the center portion, the left handle comprising: a left handle outboard end; a left handle engaging geometry located on the left handle outboard end.
15. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- a right handle axis defined by the right handle;
- a left handle axis defined by the left handle;
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a wedge shaped generally planar right handle outboard surface, where the generally planar right handle outboard surface makes an angle with the right handle axis that is not 0°, 90° or 180°;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a wedge shaped generally planar left handle outboard surface, where the generally planar left handle outboard surface makes an angle with the left handle axis that is not 0°, 90° or 180°.
16. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a right handle notch, where generally the top half of the handle has been removed a distance away from the outboard end, and the lower half of the handle has been left generally intact;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a left handle notch, where generally the top half of the handle has been removed a distance away from the outboard end, and the lower half of the handle has been left generally intact.
17. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right handle outboard end;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left handle outboard end.
18. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the right handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the left handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the left handle.
19. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the right handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the right handle;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the left handle generally adjacent to the outboard end of the left handle.
20. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- a right handle axis defined by the right handle;
- a left handle axis defined by the left handle;
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a first right handle cross hole located in the right handle; a second right handle cross hole located in the right handle and directly opposite of the first handle cross handle, and if an first imaginary line extends from the center of the first right handle cross hole through the center of the second right handle cross hole, the imaginary line will be generally perpendicular to the right handle axis;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a first left handle cross hole located in the left handle; a second left handle cross hole located in the left handle and directly opposite of the first handle cross handle, and if an first imaginary line extends from the center of the first left handle cross hole through the center of the second left handle cross hole, the imaginary line will be generally perpendicular to the left handle axis.
21. The handlebar of claim 14, further comprising:
- a right handle axis defined by the right handle;
- a left handle axis defined by the left handle;
- the right handle engaging geometry comprising: a right handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of right handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of right handle circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right handle outboard end;
- the left handle engaging geometry comprising: a left handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a series of left handle circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of left handle circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the left handle outboard end.
22. A grip comprising:
- a grip central opening;
- a grip engaging geometry located in the grip central opening.
23. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a grip end face located in the right grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip, and where the grip end face is shaped into a wedge contour planar surface.
24. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- an ulnar nerve volume of the grip located above the wedge contour planar surface of the grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand.
25. The grip of claim 24, where the ulnar nerve volume is located generally near the ulnar nerve region of the rider's hand when the rider's hand is holding the grip.
26. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a grip end face located in the grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip, where the grip end face is configured to mate with a handle outboard end that has been shaped to form a notch, where generally the top half of the handle has been removed a distance away from an outboard end, and the lower half of the handle has been left generally intact.
27. The grip of claim 26, further comprising:
- an ulnar nerve volume of the grip located above the grip end face, where the volume contains more grip material such that it provides additional cushioning to a rider's hand.
28. The grip of claim 27, where the ulnar nerve volume is located generally near the ulnar nerve region of the rider's hand when the rider's hand is holding the grip.
29. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a grip end face located in the grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip, and where the grip end face is shaped to form a series of circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the grip inboard end.
30. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a grip end face located in the grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip;
- a set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the grip in the grip central opening.
31. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a grip end face located in the grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip;
- a grip collar extending from the grip end face towards the inboard end of the grip;
- a set of circumferentially spaced external splines located on the outer surface of the grip collar.
32. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a first grip recess located on the inner surface of the grip;
- a second grip recess located on the inner surface of the grip, and the second recess located directly opposite of the first recess;
- a spring clip with a first engagement pin and a second engagement pin.
33. The grip of claim 22, further comprising:
- a connector, the right connector comprising: a connector inboard side; a connector outboard side; a series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections extending towards the right connector inboard side, the series of connector circumferentially spaced notches generally alternating with a series of circumferentially spaced projections; a set of connector circumferentially spaced external splines located on the connector outboard side;
- a grip end face located in the grip central opening adjacent to the outboard end of the grip;
- a set of circumferentially spaced internal splines located on the inner surface of the grip in the right grip central opening.
Type: Application
Filed: May 6, 2015
Publication Date: Mar 2, 2017
Patent Grant number: 10787220
Applicant: PADLOC, LLC (Reno, NV)
Inventors: Jason Moeschler (Nevada City, CA), Christian Feucht (Nevada City, NV), Evan Smith (Nevada City, CA), Mark Slate (San Rafael, CA), Patrick M. Seidler (Mill Valley, CA), Raphael Schlanger (Wilton, CT)
Application Number: 14/909,722